Grocery
Sweetened Condensed Milk
What it is
Sweetened condensed milk is a dairy product made by evaporating about 60% of the water from milk. This process concentrates the milk solids and sugars. It has a thick, syrupy consistency and a very sweet flavor. The high sugar content acts as a preservative, giving it a long shelf life when unopened. It is a common ingredient in many desserts and baked goods.
How people cook with it
This rich, sweet milk is a versatile ingredient for adding sweetness and body to a variety of dishes.
- Dessert bases
- Sweet sauces
- Baked goods
- Beverage sweetener
Sweetened condensed milk is often used directly from the can without further cooking, especially in no-bake desserts like cheesecakes, pies, and fudge. It can also be incorporated into baked goods to add moisture and a characteristic sweetness. When heated, it can form the base for caramel sauces or be used to create custardy fillings. Its thick texture means it can also be whipped or blended into creamy concoctions.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk has a significant amount of added sugar and is much thicker. It also differs from regular milk due to its concentrated nature and the absence of most of its water content. Its sweetness makes it unsuitable as a direct substitute for regular milk in most savory applications.
Who it is for
Bakers and home cooks often reach for this ingredient to achieve specific textures and sweetness levels in their creations.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, store any leftover sweetened condensed milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be used within a few days to maintain its quality and freshness. Ensure it is properly sealed to prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods.